Things to do in West Village   

Nestled along the Hudson River and flanked with striking brownstones and trendy restaurants, the West Village is one of the most vibrant areas of New York. Whether you’re in a group or travelling solo, you’ll find many reasons to love the neighborhood. From world-class galleries and historic landmarks to fantastic theaters and comedy clubs, you’ll never be bored here. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple and would like to spend some time in the West Village during your stay, have a read through some of our favorite things to do in the area!

Get Cultured

A well-recognized hub of innovation and artistry, the West Village has much to offer in the museum department. For first time visitors, a trip to The Whitney Museum of American Art is essential. Founded in 1930, the museum has grown to become one of the leading institutions for modern and contemporary art. The repository features many styles of artwork, from minimalist pieces to conceptual mind-benders. Visit to see works from renowned artists including Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns and Georgia O’Keeffe.

An artists’ enclave-turned-current hipster hotspot, the West Village presents a wealth of fantastic cultural institutions for theater lovers. First opened in 1923, The Cherry Lane Theatre is now recognized as the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City. The playhouse runs everything from total classics to side-splitting comedies, all under one roof. With its unique charm and elegance, this venue provides an intimate experience that you won’t find at other places. Though the theater is small, this spot has amassed quite a reputation – for this reason, we recommend booking ahead of time.

Cinephiles taking a trip to the West Village will be blessed with countless options for places to catch a movie. Still, our resounding favorite for independent cinema has to be the IFC Center. Formerly the Waverly Theater, this place is famed for popularizing the Rocky Horror Picture Show back in 1976. Nowadays, the venue regularly screens an eclectic mix of independent, foreign, documentary and classic films. With its fantastic film picks and laid-back atmosphere, this stop is great for spending time with friends and family.

Find Fun Activities

Another one of our favorite things to do in the West Village is visit the Museum of Illusions. Breaking away from the traditional museum experience, this spot offers more brain-tricking, eye-tricking fun than any other entertainment location in the city. Learn about vision, perception and the human brain through the institute’s intriguing walkthrough exhibits. From kaleidoscopes and holograms to tiled and reverse rooms, this place is a total feast for the senses. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture some snaps for Instagram!

The West Village isn’t just home to some fantastic cultural amenities and interesting historic sites – it's also a total foodie’s paradise! Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a romantic date spot, or maybe just a quick bite, the area has something to suit all tastes and budgets. For those harnessing a sweet tooth, we recommend checking out Milk Bar. Founded by James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Christina Tosi, this place is famed for its cutesy, nostalgic treats which taste as good as they look. If you’re looking to satisfy all of your savory cravings, head over to John’s Pizzeria. Serving up coal-fired thin-crust pies since 1929, this authentic spot has more than mastered the art of the perfect slice.

Though the city is perhaps best recognized for its towering skyscrapers and modern structures, it's also home to some wonderful urban green spaces. Those looking to get some fresh air might enjoy Hudson River Park for its beautiful scenery. Running from Battery Park to 59th Street, the park attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning views of the river and Manhattan skyline. There are flowers, benches, beaches, and many exciting activities to try out – including kayaking and sailing tours. Take a stroll, have a picnic, or watch the sun set over the river – the world’s your oyster!

Spot the Famous Landmarks

Teeming with living history and culture, the West Village presents many interesting anecdotal sites to be explored. Recognized as the most famous gay bar in the world, the Stonewall Inn gave its name to the spontaneous demonstrations of 1969, which set the LGBTQ+ rights movement into motion. Today, the bar draws in a diverse crowd in celebration of the history and progression of the gay liberation movement. A National Historic Landmark and mainstay of West Village culture, this place should be at the top of your itinerary. Before visiting, we suggest checking online for drag shows, themed nights and karaoke.

The concrete jungle has long been a popular filming destination, with some of the TV’s most recognizable sites tucked away in the West Village. For comedy lovers and pop culture fans, one of the best spots in the city is none other than the original Friends apartment building. Situated at 90 Bedford Street, this redbrick building attracts thousands of fans to catch a glimpse of TV history. Though you can’t go inside the building, this place makes for the perfect photo opportunity!

The list of TV shows shot in the picturesque center of New York City is endless. With its beautiful parks and historic architecture, the West Village has long been a favorite for the small screen – in fact, the area minds the home of one very famous New Yorker: Carrie Bradshaw. Sadly, the inside isn’t open to the public, though we like to imagine it overflowing with Manolo Blahniks and Vogues. Undoubtedly stunning and quintessentially NYC, this stop is a total must-see for any Sex and the City fan. Whilst you’re in the area, take time to explore its designer boutiques and hip restaurants in true Carrie Bradshaw style.

Well, there you have it: our list of the best things to do in the West Village. Still, to face the facts, you could live in the neighborhood for years and not experience everything that it has to offer, because there’s simply so much to see and do! Whether you’re looking to catch a play with some friends, taste some of the best pizza in the city, or admire the views at Hudson River Park, you’ll find many reasons to love the area. Explore New York to its full potential with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do Alone in New York

In many ways, New York is the perfect destination for the solo traveler. Aside from its undeniable beauty, the city presents no shortage of fun and interesting things to do. Whether you’re looking to learn about the history of America, view some world-class art, or walk the High Line, you’ll find countless reasons to love the Big Apple. In a city presenting so many opportunities for adventure, you’ll never be bored. If you aren't sure where to start, have a read through our guide of the best things to do in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. See the Sites Travelling alone provides great opportunity for sightseeing and discovery. Gifted to America by the French in 1884, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. To marvel at this historic landmark up close, take the ferry over to Liberty Island. Bearing a torch in her right hand above her crowned head, this neoclassical sculpture stands out as a true emblem of freedom and possibility. Whilst you’re there, you should take time to visit Ellis Island, since these two attractions come hand in hand. Once the United States' main immigration point of entry, the area now presents many interesting activities for those looking to learn more about the development of the United States. Check out the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum, delve deeper in American history with a Hard Hat Tour, or take a boat trip around the area. Presenting such an interesting background that’s still relevant to this day, this site is a moving experience for many visitors. Some things are perhaps best enjoyed on your own – like the spectacular architecture of the city, for instance. Standing out against the towering skyscrapers and modern structures, the Brooklyn Bridge is a mainstay of NYC culture with its own claim to fame. Built in the late 19th century, it was the first roadway to connect Manhattan with Brooklyn and is recognizable today for its stunning gothic arches. Set aside an hour or so to walk the bridge and check out the spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture the magic! Get Cultured If you’re looking for art and culture, New York City is the place to be! A well-recognized hub of innovation and creative thought, the city boasts some of the best galleries in the world. Located along the Museum Mile, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a total must-see for all artsy types. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, the museum exhibits over 5000 years of art across all disciplines. Highlights include Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Monet’s Water Lillies, and Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d'Avignon. Another one of our favorite things to do alone in the city is visit the Morgan Library. Formerly the private collection of financier J. Pierpont Morgan, this place is recognized as one of the largest on-paper repositories in the world. Indeed, situated in a striking palatial building on Madison Avenue, you can view an expansive collection of art across a wide variety of disciplines, including drawings, prints, and musical works spanning from 4000 B.C. right through to the 21st century. Highlights include Charles Dickens’s manuscript of A Christmas Carol, the only manuscript of Milton's Paradise Lost, and letters written by Jane Austen. Going to see a play of your own choosing can be pretty liberating. Luckily, New York is brimming with options for theater lovers - no matter what your style may be! If you’re a musical fan, Broadway should be right up your alley. Attracting millions of visitors each year, this iconic playhouse is recognized for shaping the landscape of popular theater as we know it today. Still, if you’re looking to see something a little different, you’ll have plenty of places to choose from. Located in Greenwich Village, the Cherry Lane Theatre is known for being the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City. Here, you’ll find everything from total classics and tragedies to side-splitting comedies and political works all under one roof. Whether you’re an actor, a drama student, or a dedicated fan of the performed arts, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Relax! New York, we love you, but you can be a little tiring sometimes! For those looking for a refuge among the mayhem, don’t worry – we've got you covered. Running from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District right through to Hudson Yards, the High Line offers visitors a great chance to soak up the city without too much of a fuss. There are flowers, benches, and public art installations to be enjoyed. Go for a casual stroll, have a picnic, or sit back and enjoy the sunset over the skyline – the world’s your oyster! Visiting a market is a fantastic solo travel activity and New York has some of the best. Drawing together artisans and tastemakers from all over the city, Chelsea Market offers a rewarding experience for any visitor. Its main draw is its vibrant food hall, which has over 30 vendors selling dishes and ingredients from around the world. The market also has many interesting shops and kiosks to explore. Browse the book stores, check out the jewelry, pick up a jar of raw wildflower honey, or watch an interactive art installation at Artechouse. Hey, what’s not to love? Forever interesting and bustling with life, New York is the perfect destination for the solo traveler. Whether you love art, history, or just simply want to admire the cityscape, the Big Apple is where you want to be. Looking to learn more about the background of the city? Head over to Ellis Island for a trip back in time. Are you fostering a deep love of the performed arts? Make a trip to Broadway for some of the best live entertainment in the country. Harnessing a sweet tooth? Check out Chelsea Market for some delicious eats. Wherever your interests may lie, New York has plenty of things to do, and even more to see. Explore the city to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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Things to do in Astoria

Looking for interesting things to do in Astoria? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Established way back in the 17th century, this vibrant neighborhood is now recognized for its fantastic museums, beautiful parks and enticing restaurants. Whether you’re in a group or travelling solo, you’ll find that there's no shortage of things to see and do in Astoria. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, read through our guide of the best attractions in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Explore the Area Brimming with diversity and culture, Astoria is home to a fantastic array of dining options. Whether you’re looking for something a little sweet, a romantic date spot, or maybe just a quick slice, there’s something for everybody here. Still, if it's your first trip here, we suggest checking out one of the area’s many enticing Greek restaurants. Always our top pick, Bahari Estiatorio won the people over long ago with its authentic eats and laid-back atmosphere. This place is a local favorite – and we can see why! But if Greek isn’t your thing, there’s no need to worry – Astoria is a total foodie’s dream. Those looking for a hit of spice should check out Seva. With their approachable menu and rich flavors, this place puts dedication into bringing Indian cuisine to a broad audience. Just be careful you don’t go too spicy! Musical instruments have lent their sound to countless masterpieces throughout the years, but none are quite as recognizable as the Steinway piano. For inquisitive musicians and artisans alike, the Steinway & Sons Factory provides tours so you can see how this beautiful instrument is made. Dig deep into a fundamental part of musical history and view the intricate work that goes into making these pieces firsthand. Walking through the factory, you might feel a little like you’re going backwards in a time machine, but that’s what makes their pianos so special. The company utilizes a lot of unique handcrafting techniques as opposed to modern methods. We recommend wearing your comfiest shoes, since the tour is two hours long! Get Cultured A list of the best attractions in Astoria wouldn’t be complete without the Noguchi Museum. Founded and designed by Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, the institution is the first to be established in America with the sole intention of the artist showing their own work. Since then, the repository has grown to include an extraordinary range of sculptures from modern and contemporary artists. Don't forget to check out the sculpture garden, where you can view some of the most interesting sculptor works in a serene outdoor setting. Though this is a specialty museum, these unusual pieces are more than palatable to any creative types drifting into the local area. Where Midtown has the MoMa and The Museum at FIT, Astoria has the Museum of the Moving Image. Built into the former site of the Astoria Studios, the institute concentrates on the history, artistry and technology of digital media. In its expansive collection, you’ll find everything from famous film costumes and still photography to technical and production equipment. Additionally, visitors can enjoy immersive exhibitions, animation workstations and special events. This place is just as intriguing for passionate cinephiles and casual viewers alike – so don’t miss out! We love a good museum, and luckily, Astoria presents some fantastic options for those who feel the same way. Standing out as the only institution of its kind in the city, The People’s Museum works to provide an immersive educational experience for those with physical disabilities. The establishment defines itself as a general education museum, and its exhibitions cover a wide range of topics. From modern art and Roman pottery to Revolutionary War memorabilia and dinosaur bones, this place has it all. With its friendly environment and innovative means of presentation, the museum works to provide a fun learning experience for all visitors. Check out Some of the Landmarks Another one of our favorite spots to visit in Astoria is the Welling Court Mural Project. Situated just a few blocks away from Socrates Park, this vibrant project began as a means to beautify the area and influence positive social change through the art of graffiti. Free and open to the public 24 hours a day, the gallery displays the works of over 150 artists, including Lady Pink, Tristan Easton, and Wane COD. The walls serve as a backdrop for a wide variety of subject matters: from the socially charged and pragmatic to the comedic and whimsical, you’ll spot it all here. Don’t forget to bring your phone so that you can capture some snaps for Instagram! If you couldn’t get enough of the sculptures at the Noguchi Museum, then you should consider checking out the Socrates Sculpture Park. In 1986, the artists Mark di Suvero and Enrico Martignoni set out to transform an abandoned landfill into a hub of innovative activity and creative thought. And it worked! Set against the wondrous backdrop of the Manhattan skyline, the garden is now home to a Impressive and ever-changing collection of architectural models. In addition to its beautiful contemporary sculptures, you can also catch music and dance performances, movie screenings, educational workshops and more. We could think of few things better than savoring a frosty cold one on a balmy summer’s evening. Perfect for hanging out with friends after an exciting day of exploration, the Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden is recognized as one of the oldest venues of its kind in New York. Sip on some of the best Czech and craft beers available and enjoy hot bratwurst straight off of the grill in a friendly courtyard. Keep your eye out for sports nights and traditional festivals - but be warned – they can get quite rowdy! Well, what else is there left to say? We love Astoria! With so many things to do in the area, it’s impossible to be bored. Whether you’re looking to try out some of the best cuisine in the city, catch a drink with some friends, or view some avant-garde art, the world’s your oyster! To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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